Natalie McNally Murder Trial: Prolonged Assault Detailed in Court

A Belfast Crown Court has heard harrowing details of the alleged prolonged assault on Natalie McNally, a 32-year-classic woman who was 15 weeks pregnant when she was killed in Lurgan, Northern Ireland, in December 2022. Stephen McCullagh, 36, from Lisburn, has denied the murder charge.

Details of the Assault

State pathologist Dr. James Lyness testified that Natalie McNally endured a “prolonged assault” involving multiple stab wounds, strangulation, and significant blunt force trauma to the head. The pathologist detailed dozens of injuries to her head, face, neck, chest, and limbs. He stated that both the neck compression and the stab wounds were individually capable of causing death, and it was difficult to determine the precise sequence of events.

Dr. Lyness described the case as “complex,” noting the possibility that the head injuries also contributed to her death. He indicated that the injuries to her hands were consistent with her attempting to defend herself, potentially throwing a punch or raising her arms to protect her face.

The court heard that the foetus Natalie was carrying, a male approximately 15 weeks gestation, likely died as a result of the assault.

Evidence Presented in Court

A police constable testified about arresting Stephen McCullagh at the scene, noting that he appeared “very upset and crying.” Upon being cautioned about the murder investigation, McCullagh reportedly asked, “Murder – why?”

Footage from the officer’s body-worn camera was shown to the court. The court also heard evidence regarding a puncture wound observed on Natalie McNally’s neck and blood found in a dog bowl near her body.

Prosecution’s Case

The prosecution, led by Charles MacCreanor KC, has argued that the murder was “planned, calculated and premeditated,” and that McCullagh hoped to evade justice.

Timeline of Events

Natalie McNally’s death is estimated to have occurred between 8:50 PM and 9:30 PM on Sunday, December 18, 2022. Emergency services were alerted the following evening, December 19, 2022. The autopsy was performed on December 21, 2022.

Trial Details

The trial, presided over by Judge Mr Justice Patrick Kinney, is expected to last approximately five weeks. A jury of six men and six women has been sworn in to hear the case. Stephen McCullagh sat in the dock during the proceedings.

Sources: BBC News, ITV News, BreakingNews.ie, Belfast Telegraph